Motel One to certify all hotels with Green Key

Motel One Group, a German hotel chain with 90 hotels in 13 countries, has chosen Green Key as the external certification programme partner for its hotels.

Motel One Linz Hauptplatz, Austria

Motel One has made it its priority to sustainably improve the hospitality world through its business activities. No matter whether it’s through climate protection, the purchase of sustainable products, being a multi-award-winning employer or through societal commitment. For this the group has launched the ‘One Planet. One Future.’ programme which is based on the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals. 

With external certifications, Motel One is underlining its commitment to sustainable development and is obtaining objective confirmation that the ESG measures it has already put in place have been effective.

In July 2023, Motel One signed a cooperation agreement with Green Key to certify all Motel One Group hotels. The certifications will portray the high environmental and socio-economic standards through rigorous verifications and auditing processes.

Daniel Müller, Co-CEO Motel One Group, says: “We are very proud, that our longstanding efforts are now being verified and certified by an experienced external party. This will send a strong signal of quality and reliability towards our guests and underline our commitment. Green Key is a strong partner, and we are thrilled to start this cooperation.”

Finn Bolding Thomsen, Green Key International Director, adds: “We are impressed with Motel One’s ambitions on sustainability, and we are grateful to be chosen as the external certification programme partner. We have already begun the work with Motel One’s hotels on their sustainability journey.”

Motel One Glasgow, Scotland

The Hilton Lake Como joins the Green Key programme

Following the Hilton hotels in Milan, Venice and Rome, the Hilton Lake Como hotel receives the Green Key certification.

Within walking distance of Villa Olmo, lush parks and the lakefront, the hotel is ten minutes from the city center and can accommodate up to 300 guests.

Sophisticated and contemporary, full of style and charm, the Hilton Lake Como is not only luxury and relaxation: its reserved dimension well integrates and reflects the surrounding landscape, the lush nature and the splendid Lake Como. Hilton, on the other hand, is a guarantee of excellence, as is the rigor of Green Key, a quality standard in the field of sustainable tourism, which guides tourist facilities to play their part in achieving the 17 sustainable development goals established by United Nations.

The facility shows a strong focus on environmental issues and commitment to the implementation of good sustainable management practices, in accordance with Hilton's policy and the Green Key imperative criteria.

The hotel is undertaking many actions to further improve its sustainability performance. Its purchase policy is based on the choice of sustainable and local products, while the menu offers seasonal and vegetarian options. Understanding that holistic nature of sustainability, the Hilton is establishing partnerships with local authorities and associations to promote the territory, while also making guests an active part in the implementation of good practices.

The sustainable approach of the hotel is made possible by the fundamental support of the staff, which is always aware and constantly updated on good practices to be implemented in the daily management of routine activities.

Thanks to the hotel's collaboration with Caritas, basic necessities are provided to the needy people of the city, and the partnership with the non-profit association Imperfect raises awareness among guests on the importance of breast cancer prevention.

Hilton Lake Como is an excellence of the hospitality sector and, joining proactively the Green Key programme, it is also confirmed as a champion of sustainable tourism, inclusiveness, and enhancement of the territory.

Cultivating Sustainable Tourism in Cambodia through ESD

With education for sustainable development (ESD) at the heart of our work, we are excited to have reached a significant milestone this past July in our ongoing project with the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) which seeks to promote sustainable tourism practices in Cambodia through environmental education.  

In 2022, the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) and the Improved Competitiveness of National Enterprises (ICONE) programme of the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) launched a new project to support sustainable tourism in Cambodia, with FEE’s Eco-Schools and Green Key programmes providing a framework for implementation.  

As part of this project, Green Key Coordinator and Project Manager, Claudia Bogensperger travelled to Cambodia last month to participate in a regional conference on sustainability in tourism organised by the ICONE programme and to deliver an introductory course on sustainable tourism to three hospitality schools in Cambodia. The conference kicked-off this joint project, with various stakeholders from the tourism and hospitality industry engaging in discussions and workshops about customers' perspective on sustainability, waste management, zero plastic approaches, and capacity building of the local industry. Green Key presented practical examples of sustainable tourism from the Green Key International network, and the role of certification programmes in furthering sustainability within the industry. The conference offered a platform for exchange, collaboration, and collective learning. 

Another key element of the project has been the development and delivery of the "Basics in Sustainability in Tourism & Hospitality" course. This was delivered by Ms. Bogensperger to  teachers of École d'Hôtellerie et de Tourisme Paul Dubrule (EHT), Pour un Sourire d'Enfant's (PSE) and SPOONS. The course addresses topics such sustainable purchasing, emission reduction, waste minimisation and management, and social sustainability.  The aim is to equip teachers with a basic understanding about sustainability in tourism and be able to pass along their knowledge to their students. To ensure a holistic approach to the course, teachers from various departments, such as Food & Beverage, Communications, Housekeeping, and Maintenance participated. 

Fundraising and Marketing Manager of SPOONS, Dym Chandy Loeung explains:

Participating in the three-day Sustainable Tourism Development course was an enlightening experience that deepened my understanding of core green tourism principles, and I'm now equipped with the knowledge and passion to promote responsible and sustainable travel, as well as the tips to make our NGO and social enterprise more eco-friendly.

The course will also function as important resource for those schools aiming to be certified with the Green Flag of the Eco-Schools programme, as the inclusion of environmental education in a variety of different curriculum areas is central to the Seven Steps methodology of the programme. This has also been pointed out by Project and Communications Manager of EHT Paul Dubrule, Enrique Blanco: 

Contributing to EHT Paul Dubrule's actions in becoming an NGO and TVET green school model, our teachers and team members were privileged to receive a comprehensive course in sustainability in tourism and hospitality. Delivered by Ms. Claudia Bogensperger from the Foundation of Environmental Education (FEE), this learning experience included core green principles and practical examples demonstrated through group activities to apply sustainable practices related to resource consumption, waste management, biodiversity awareness, and more! 

Green Key Coordinator and Project Manager, Claudia Bogensperger reflected on her experience in Cambodia, saying,  

It was an absolute pleasure to work together with various stakeholders from the tourism and hospitality sector in Cambodia and learn more about the inspiring work they are already doing in the realms of sustainable tourism. To create a truly sustainable industry, everyone needs to be involved in the process, and we need to work on different models of sustainability that are not only based on but support geographical and cultural differences. That is why at FEE, our approach is to stimulate capacity development through collaborations with local organizations. Recognising that sustainable practices are best tailored to fit the unique characteristics of each region, we believe that empowering local entities is central to achieving holistic and impactful outcomes. 

This project in Cambodia marks an important step in promoting sustainable tourism practices within the country. By mainstreaming sustainability into the local context and promoting inclusivity among all stakeholders, the seeds for a thriving and responsible tourism industry in the country have been planted. For the long-term success of the project, it is critical to cultivate sustainable tourism practices that not only benefit the environment, but also empower local communities. We look forward to continuing to do so in partnership with GIZ Cambodia and the ICONE programme. 

Copyright Pictures: Claudia Bogensperger

IHG Hotels & Resorts (IHG) and Green Key International Enter Collaboration Agreement

Green Key is proud to announce to be an official partner of IHG Hotels & Resorts, supporting the eco-certification efforts of IHG hotels.

Crown Plaza Copenhagen Towers, Copenhagen, Denmark

IHG Hotels & Resorts is a global hospitality company with more than 6,000 hotels in over 100 countries worldwide, with a purpose to provide True Hospitality for Good. IHG has a family of 18 hotel brands, across luxury & lifestyle, premium, essentials, suites and exclusive partners – including, among others: Six Senses, Regent, InterContinental, Kimpton, voco, Crowne Plaza, Holiday Inn and Staybridge Suites.

Continuing a long-standing commitment to operating responsibly, IHG’s Journey to Tomorrow action plan sets out the company’s ambitions to deliver its purpose of True Hospitality for Good, through efforts focused on creating positive change for people, communities and the planet.

Through its collaboration with Green Key International, IHG will support hotel pathways to participation in the Green Key programme, which will provide external third-party validation of the comprehensive sustainability efforts being undertaken by hotels across the IHG portfolio.

Kate Willoughby, Head of Corporate Responsibility, EMEAA at IHG, says,

“Our hotels are driving impactful progress toward sustainability goals as part of the Journey to Tomorrow plan. We’re pleased to be working with an internationally-recognised and leading eco-certification programme like Green Key to provide further external recognition for these initiatives, and to drive further continuous improvement.”

Finn Bolding Thomsen, Green Key International Director, adds,

“We are extremely proud to be an eco-certification partner of IHG. We recognise the value of IHG’s Journey to Tomorrow in supporting their hotels’ journey towards achieving the external Green Key certification and applaud IHG for partnering with Green Key, thereby reaffirming their commitment to sustainability and accountability.”

Voco Grand Central Hotel, Glasgow, Scotland

About IHG®

IHG Hotels & Resorts is a global hospitality company, with a purpose to provide True Hospitality for Good.

With a family of 18 hotel brands and IHG One Rewards, one of the world's largest hotel loyalty programmes, IHG has over 6,000 open hotels in over 100 countries, and more than 1,900 in the development pipeline.

• Luxury & Lifestyle: Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas, Regent Hotels & Resorts, InterContinental Hotels & Resorts, Vignette Collection, Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants, Hotel Indigo

• Premium: voco hotels, HUALUXE Hotels & Resorts, Crowne Plaza Hotels & Resorts, EVEN Hotels

• Essentials: Holiday Inn Hotels & Resorts, Holiday Inn Express, avid hotels

• Suites: Atwell Suites, Staybridge Suites, Holiday Inn Club Vacations, Candlewood Suites

• Exclusive Partners: Iberostar Beachfront Resorts

InterContinental Hotels Group PLC is the Group's holding company and is incorporated and registered in England and Wales. Approximately 345,000 people work across IHG's hotels and corporate offices globally.

Visit IHG online for more about their hotels and reservations and IHG One Rewards. To download the new IHG One Rewards app, visit the Apple App or Google Play stores.

 For IHG’s latest news, visit their Newsroom and follow them on LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter.

Three new Green Key-certified properties bolster Tobago's sustainable tourism efforts

Green T&T and the Tobago Tourism Agency Limited (TTAL) proudly announce the addition of three more Green Key-certified properties to its portfolio.

L - R: Wendell Walker - Director Product Development & Destination Management |Tobago Tourism Agency Ltd; Jade Nivet- Office Manager| Bananaquit Vacations; Aljoscha Wothke - Chairman, Green T&T

Bananaquit Vacations, Tropical Apartments, and House of Grace have all successfully achieved their certifications, bolstering Tobago's reputation as a leader in sustainable tourism. These properties join the esteemed ranks of Shepherd's Inn and Adventure Ecovillas, bringing the total number of Green Key-certified sites in Tobago to five.

Bananaquit Vacations, a trailblazer in sustainable hospitality, is delighted to receive its second-year Green Key certification. Situated amidst lush tropical gardens in Crown Point, the property offers guests a tranquil escape while maintaining a strong commitment to environmental responsibility. Bananaquit Vacations has implemented numerous eco-friendly initiatives, including energy-efficient practices, waste reduction measures, and extensive recycling programs, to minimize its ecological footprint.

Tropical Apartments located in Scarborough, has also earned its second-year Green Key certification. This eco-conscious establishment goes above and beyond to provide guests with an exceptional experience while safeguarding the island's delicate ecosystem. By implementing water conservation measures, and engaging in community outreach programs, Tropical Apartment exemplifies the principles of sustainable tourism.

L-R: Aljoscha Wothke - Chairman, Green T&T; Gillian Gibson, Owner| Tropical Apartments; Wendell Walker - Director Product Development & Destination Management |Tobago Tourism Agency Ltd

House of Grace, a new addition to Tobago's Green Key certified properties, has already made significant strides in environmental sustainability. Nestled in a serene setting in the Buccoo area, this property seamlessly combines comfort and eco-consciousness. House of Grace is committed to resource efficiency, waste management, and responsible tourism practices. With its Green Key certification, the property further establishes its commitment to preserving Tobago's natural wonders for future generations.

L-R: Wendell Walker - Director Product Development & Destination Management |Tobago Tourism Agency Ltd; Gracelyn Chance, Owner| House of Grace; Aljoscha Wothke - Chairman, Green T&T

Ms. Alicia Edwards, Executive Chair of the Tobago Tourism Agency Limited, expressed her delight at the continued growth of Green Key-certified properties in Tobago, stating

“The Green Key certification is a natural fit and durable competitive advantage for destination Tobago. We congratulate the successful properties and pledge the continued support of the Agency for the expansion of Green Key certification on the island.”

Green T&T, the National Operator for the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) and custodian of the Green Key program in Trinidad and Tobago, commended the newly certified properties for their commitment to sustainability. Mrs. Joanna Moses-Wothke, Chief Executive Officer of Green T&T, remarked

"We are proud to witness the growth of the Green Key program in Tobago and celebrate the exemplary efforts of Bananaquit Vacations, Tropical Apartment, and House of Grace. Their dedication to sustainable practices sets a remarkable example for the hospitality industry in the English-speaking Caribbean."

With its pristine beaches, vibrant marine life, and rich biodiversity, Tobago has long been a favored destination for travelers seeking a harmonious blend of nature and relaxation. The addition of Bananaquit Vacations, Tropical Apartment, and House of Grace to the Green Key-certified properties not only enhances the island's allure but also underscores Tobago's commitment to fostering sustainable tourism practices. For more information on Tobago's Green Key-certified properties and sustainable tourism initiatives, please visit Green Key T&T – Green-TT.

About Tobago Tourism Agency Limited (TTAL):  The core mandate of the TTAL is to lead the (re) development of the island’s tourism product and the marketing and (re) positioning of Tobago as a premier island destination founded on the principles of sustainable development. In order to fulfill its mandate, the TTAL works with and through public and private sector stakeholders and partners in the aviation, cruise and hospitality sub-sectors.

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About Green Key: Green T&T is the National Operator for the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) in Trinidad and Tobago. As custodian of the Green Key program, Green T&T is responsible for the implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of the eco-label within the country's tourism industry. Green T&T works in partnership with government agencies, tourism stakeholders, and hospitality establishments to promote sustainable practices, raise awareness about environmental conservation, and drive the growth of eco-tourism in Trinidad and Tobago. For more information on Green T&T, please visit www.green-tt.org or email greenkey@green-tt.org Telephone contact: 1-868-358-1708 or 1-868-497-9705

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Green Key Programme Launched in Bangladesh: A positive step towards Sustainable Tourism

In a significant stride towards advancing sustainable tourism in Bangladesh, the nation proudly inaugurates the Green Key program under the astute leadership of Probha Aurora, the esteemed national operator of Green Key in Bangladesh

Green Key, a globally recognised certification programme renowned for its emphasis on environmental stewardship and sustainable practices within the hospitality and tourism sector, now finds its home in Bangladesh through the dedicated efforts of Probha Aurora. As the national operator, Probha Aurora's adept strategic approach and conscientious response to both local and global environmental concerns position them as the ideal custodians of this prestigious initiative.

Bidhan Chandra Pal, Founder and Managing Director of Probha Aurora, shared,

"We take immense pride in announcing the national stewardship of Green Key in Bangladesh. This endeavor not only nurtures ecologically responsible tourism and sustainable business practices but also proudly showcases Bangladesh's resolute dedication to eco-friendly tourism. With concerted cooperation, we aspire to realize the triumph and longevity of this programme."

The Green Key programme encourages tourism establishments, including hotels, hostels, holiday parks, conference centers, restaurants, and attractions, to adopt sustainable methods and technology. This will lead to a reduction in resource consumption and an increased focus on environmental responsibility, ultimately contributing to a greener tourism sector. Probha Aurora's dedication to environmental awareness on a national scale, combined with its innovative revenue generation models, makes them well-equipped to drive positive change and ensure the success and sustainability of the Green Key programme in Bangladesh.

Finn Bolding Thomsen, Green Key International Director, enthusiastically remarked,

"We are very happy to announce Probha Aurora as the entity in charge of implementing and administering the Green Key programme in Bangladesh. It is exciting to see the interest for Green Key growing in South and South-East Asia. Probha Aurora’s aim of supporting the transition to sustainable tourism in Bangladesh while also creating new jobs for youth in the tourism industry is a very important strategic direction."

The rise in environmental awareness among tourists has led to a demand for eco-friendly accommodations. The Green Key certification assures tourists of a tourism establishment's dedication to sustainability. In Bangladesh, the launch of the Green Key programme by Probha Aurora reflects a significant step towards aligning the country's tourism industry with global sustainable practices. This initiative is anticipated to make Bangladesh a top choice for environmentally conscious travelers as the nation embraces eco-friendly initiatives and awareness campaigns among tourists, staff, and suppliers.

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About Probha Aurora:

Since its inception in 2021, Probha Aurora stands as an avant-garde organisation ardently committed to tackling environmental challenges and propounding sustainable paradigms in Bangladesh. A climate-sensitive, youth-focused social enterprise, Probha Aurora's resolute initiatives align seamlessly with the imperatives of today's sustainability landscape.

Noteworthy to mention, the launch of this programme was strategically fortified through collaborative strategic support from ekShop, A2i (Access to Information) and the Government ICT (Information and Communication Technology) Division, Cabinet Division, Government of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh and UNDP signifying a collective pledge to foster a greener and more enduringly sustainable tourism industry.

Discover Green Key’s achievements in the 2022 FEE’s annual report

The Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) releases its annual report each year, which includes a summary of the organization's key accomplishments and network-wide choices. The report details a number of accomplishments from FEE's five programmes. As a result, the report also includes the Green Key programme's achievements and other important milestones.

© FEE

In 2022, the Green Key programme achieved important milestones, such as:

• Signing new cooperation agreements with Accor, BWH Hotel Group, and Ascott Hotel, among others, contributing to the overall increase of over 900 establishments in the programme.

• Participating in the Improved Competitiveness of National Entreprises (ICONE) project with FEE EcoCampus programme and supporting the development of sustainable tourism in Cambodia through education and capacity building in the hospitality sector.

• Continuing working, in line with FEE strategic plan GAIA 20:30, on empowering climate action, protecting global biodiversity and reducing environmental pollution.

To read more about Green Key’s highlights of 2022 featured in the FEE annual report click here.

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Centre for Environment Education (CEE) launches the National Management of Green Key in India

The Foundation for Environmental Education’s (FEE) member organisation in India, the Centre for Environment Education (CEE), is launching the national management of Green Key in the country.

© YRE Student from India, 1st Place Winner, Litter Less Category in 2020, YRE International Competition

After the successful implementation of the FEE programme, the Blue Flag certificate for beaches, marinas and sustainable tourism boats, CEE is now launching the Green Key programme in the country. With this important step, CEE is supporting and recognising responsible hospitality practices and contributing to a more sustainable tourism industry in India.

India, known for its vibrant culture, diverse landscapes, and warm hospitality, has long been a sought-after destination for travelers from around the globe. As the tourism industry continues to grow, there is an increasing need to ensure that this growth is sustainable and environmentally responsible. The national implementation of Green Key in India holds several advantages for both the tourism establishments in the country but also the tourism sector in general.

Due to the increased proximity of the National Operator to the tourism establishments in India, Green Key can ensure to meet the specific needs and requirements of the market. CEE’s focus on raising awareness, and educating about the environment and sustainable development, paired with the understanding for the Indian culture and country-specific conditions is another benefit of the national implementation of the programme. Therefore, Green Key ensures that sustainability practices are not only effective but also culturally relevant.

With the growing awareness of environmental issues and a rising preference for sustainable travel experiences, tourists are seeking accommodation options that align with their values. The Green Key programme addresses this demand by providing a reliable and credible certification that assures tourists of a tourism establishment’s commitment to sustainable practices.

Kartikeya V. Sarabhai, Director of the Centre for Environment Education, emphasizes the deep-rooted Indian tradition of honoring guests by stating,

"'Atithi devo bhava' - the guest is highly honored in the Indian tradition. We hope to continue and enrich this tradition by supporting and recognizing responsible hospitality and a caring environment with the Green Key program."

Dr. Jagat Mangaraj, National Operator of Green Key India, explains

"Green Key will add an environmental value to hotels and hospitality services in India, keeping in mind the local context. With Green Key, hotel staff and tourists have the opportunity to make positive contributions to sustainability."

Finn Bolding Thomsen, Green Key International Director, adds:

“We are happy to have CEE as our new National Operator in India to develop our programme in the country, and we encourage any hotel or other tourism facilities eligible for Green Key in India to apply or contact our National Operator in Inda for more information about the programme.”

The launch of Green Key in India through the new National Operator marks an important milestone in promoting sustainable tourism practices within the country. As the Indian tourism sector continues to grow, the Green Key certification will play a vital role in contributing to India's commitment to preserving its rich cultural heritage while embracing sustainable development.

About CEE

CEE is a national institution engaged in developing programmes and materials to increase awareness, action about the environment and sustainable development. CEE was established in 1984 as a centre of excellence in environment education, then supported by the Ministry of Environment and Forest (MOEF) in India.

Please contact our National Operator in India through this link.

Foundation for Environmental Education Partners with the Sustainable Hospitality Alliance to Promote Sustainable Business Practices in Hospitality

A partnership designed to empower people to create an environmentally conscious world, has been announced by the Sustainable Hospitality Alliance and The Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE).  As a strategic delivery partner FEE’s expertise will help the Alliance continue its development of the Pathway to Net Positive Hospitality.

Activity will see FEE support the Alliance specifically focusing on the social and environmental aspects of education and training. This agreement positions FEE as an external expert for the Alliance, bringing insight and knowledge which will enhance collective impact. 

Established in 1981, FEE is one of the world's largest environmental education organisations, with over 100 member organisations in 81 countries with programmes which help to protect our world’s natural resources.

This partnership combines the Alliance’s sector-specific expertise and reach, representing over 50,000 properties and 7 million rooms globally, with FEE’s education and training delivery know-how.

Activity will see both parties collaborate on potential joint fundraising campaigns for the hospitality industry, with FEE endorsing and incorporating specific Alliance tools and resources that are relevant to its efforts and programmes.

Sustainable Hospitality Alliance CEO, Glenn Mandziuk, said:

“We are excited to welcome FEE as a strategic delivery partner and look forward to working with them to promote sustainable business practice in the hospitality industry.  FEE’s expertise in environmental education will undoubtedly support the Alliance in its delivery of the Pathway to Net Positive Hospitality.”

Foundation for Environmental Education CEO, Daniel Schaffer, said:

“We are very pleased to be entering a strategic partnership with the Sustainable Hospitality Alliance. This partnership builds upon our existing cooperation which promoted the use of the Sustainable Hospitality Alliance’s carbon and water calculation tools in the Green Key programme. We look forward to exploring further collaborations that engage FEE’s school-based programmes and the Sustainable Hospitality Alliance’s work supporting vulnerable youth by ensuring short-term employment in the hospitality sector.”

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About the Sustainable Hospitality Alliance

The Sustainable Hospitality Alliance brings together the hospitality industry and strategic partners to address key challenges affecting the planet and its people, local destinations and communities. They develop practical free resources and programmes to create a prosperous and responsible hospitality sector that gives back more than it takes. Their members represent over 50,000 hotels – totalling 7 million rooms – and include world-leading companies including Choice Hotels International, Marriott International, Hilton Hotels & Resorts, IHG Hotels & Resorts, Hyatt Hotels Corporation, BWH Hotel Group and Radisson Hotel Group, as well as regional brands. Their network also includes other parts of the hospitality value chain, including owners, investors and suppliers, to further drive joined up action on sustainability, and accelerate the industry on the path to net positive hospitality. For more information, please visit: www.sustainablehospitalityalliance.org

About Foundation for Environmental Education

The Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) is one of the world’s largest Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) organisations, with over 100 member organisations in 80 countries. With a network of over 60,000 educational institutions, the Eco-Schools, Learning About Forests and Young Reporters for the Environment programmes empower young people to create an environmentally conscious world through experiential, project-based learning. The Green Key and Blue Flag programmes are globally recognized for promoting sustainable business practices and the protection of natural resources. With over 40 years of impactful experience in ESD, FEE’s strategic plan, GAIA 20:30, prioritises impactful action across all five programmes to address the threats of climate change, biodiversity loss and environmental pollution.